To shape window putty effectively, you prepare it by rolling it into manageable pieces and then applying and distributing it around the glass.
Preparing and Shaping Putty
The process of shaping window putty, based on common practices including the steps outlined, involves preparing the putty and then applying it correctly around the glass pane. This is typically done after the excess old putty has been removed and glass points or clips have been inserted to hold the glass firmly in place.
Here are the key steps for shaping the putty as described:
- Prepare the Putty: Roll the putty into a golf-ball-sized shape. Continue rolling or working the putty until it becomes warm and pliable. This makes it easier to work with and apply smoothly.
- Initial Placement: Take the warm, golf-ball-sized putty and push these into the corners on the outside edge of the window frame, against the glass.
- Form the Bead: Once the putty is pushed into the corners, the next step is to distribute it along the edges. You do this by squeezing them out from corner to corner. This action forces the putty to spread and fill the gap between the glass and the frame, creating a continuous bead.
Key Shaping Actions
| Action | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Roll | Work putty into warm, golf-ball-sized pieces. | Makes putty pliable and easy to handle. |
| Push | Insert rolled pieces into corners against glass. | Establishes starting points for the bead. |
| Squeeze Out | Spread putty from corners along the glass edge. | Creates a continuous, sealing bead. |
This method ensures the putty creates a tight seal, securing the glass and protecting the frame from moisture. While further smoothing with a putty knife is standard practice to create a neat, angled finish, the core shaping action described focuses on the initial rolling, pushing into corners, and squeezing out the material to form the basic bead.
